Mario Garcia

9 December 1959 - 4 July 2022

Mario Garcia, 62, passed away suddenly in the early hours of July 4, 2022 surrounded by his loved ones. Though his last hours were difficult, the way in which he spent his last day was a testament to his character. He took his family to lunch and spent time with his precious granddaughter, Atlas, before getting her ready for bed with purposeful diligence, tenderness, and care.

Mario was born to Matias and Lillie Garcia in Karnes City, Texas, and briefly lived in San Antonio along with his sisters until his family moved to Houston, where he would live the remainder of his life. Mario fell in love with and married Laura, and together raised two children, Matthew and Kelly, among numerous pets. He was over-the-moon when welcoming his granddaughter Atlas into the world, and was the most devoted and jubilant grandfather the world would know.

Mario displayed grit, determination, and attention to detail. He thrived on hard work and honed his natural ability to create. He followed in his father's footsteps and became a machinist, putting in countless hours over decades perfecting his craft. He carved intricate pieces of metal with surgical precision amongst the loud hum of lathes, metallic dust and shavings, and the smell of engine oil. Some artists use marble, while others paint. Mario sculpted metal. That skillset applied to all manner of creation - if it could be built, Mario could build it. Mario also loved to work with wood and built countless gifts for his friends and family from wooden furniture, to archery equipment, and even patios for cats.

Mario was the kind of man who did for others, acting as a positive role model and father figure to many. He loved every creature under the sun, and was a caretaker and advocate for animals of all kinds. He was active in the dog and cat rescue and foster community, and took it as his personal charge to ensure that no animal in his reach was left wanting.

Mario is survived by his wife of 36 years, Laura Garcia, and his son Matthew Garcia and wife Rachel, his daughter Kelly Garcia Endieveri and husband Santo, his mother Lillie Garcia and his two sisters, Sylvia Garcia, and Liza Berno and husband Mike, and many other family members and friends.